ACA Aspirant Course

Aspirant Course

This is the first step in the ACA's recreational Canyon Leader program. Aspirant training focuses on the key technical aspects of canyoneering and introduces the basic concepts of group leadership and canyon "presence".

The primary objective is to help students become a Team member. One who can competently assess a wider range of technical challenges and assist in the management of the associated tasks. A person who operates with a level of understanding that allows them to begin helping others enjoy a safe and fun experience. 

This three day course will be held in Escalante Utah. We are fortunate to select from dozens of technically rated slot canyons, from which we provide our "in canyon" training. Students time is spent applying newly learned skills directly in a dynamic slot canyon environment. Participants in these courses should be prepared for three full days of learning, teamwork and challenges.

ACA Philosophy: Take this serious, in all training, in all canyons: Think Yoga….. not American Ninja Warrior. We must relax and raise personal and situational awareness. The best canyoneers, that do the “biggest canyons”, understand and apply super low impact techniques. Low impact on the environment and low impact on themselves. Keeping heart rates and respirations to a minimum, avoiding over exertion or unnecessary stress is definitely best. "Aggressive" movements (straining) are much less safe, less efficient and can impact the environment negatively. The greatest canyon Leaders move slowly, work well together, and are kind to the environment…..all while making a series of excellent choices! It's a craft.

For more details, the majority of the items on this list will be covered.

https://www.canyoneering.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Aspirant-Skills-Checklist-4-22-20.pdf

PREREQUISITES: Proficient with the Core skills checklist, and meet all canyon experience and medical training requirements.

Core; https://www.canyoneering.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Core-Skills-Checklist-4-22-20.pdf

RATE: $512
Includes ACA Instructor, coffee/tea in the morning & sorbet in the afternoon.
**Sales Tax and Meetup processing fees included.
(3 person minimum to conduct course)

We have basic gear available for rent. Rates are PER DAY and Cash Only.
$10 - Helmet
$10 - Harness
$5 - Combo - ATC & Carabiner
$5 - Gloves

Payments are refundable (less $25 cancelation fee) until 60 days prior to course start date. Cancelations after this date are Non-Refundable and Non-Transferable.

***We recommend purchasing trip insurance.

The weather in Escalante can change quickly whether before the trip or during it. We expect that you come prepared with rain jacket/gear. Cancellation due to bad weather is determined day of the trip. All guests must be present at time of determination. If we determine that the weather would make the trip unsafe, and therefore cancel, you will receive a full refund.

**Please note that the location of ANY trip is subject to change based upon the current weather (precipitation, temperature etc.) and group. Safety First.